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Hilla University College Journal For Medical Science

Document Type

Review

Keywords

Nanoparticles, Antimicrobial resistance, Antibiotic, Microbial infections

Abstract

Background: Drug-resistant organisms are on the rise globally, and therefore studies for new forms of antimicrobial agents. Among them, nanoparticles find much utility in drug delivery and possess effectiveness against antibiotic-resistant strains. Such an approach is a successful one for public health since it has relative advantages in eradicating microbial infections.

Objective: The aim of this mini-review is to discuss the role of nanoparticles and their functions on microbial infections, especially regarding their antimicrobial activity.

Method: This review involves the conduct of a systematic review of the literature through publications in different databases like PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Sciences, and only the peer-reviewed articles that are published are used. This comprises published articles that provide information on the occurrence of the role of nanoparticles, including metallic nanoparticles like iron oxide, gold, zinc oxide, and silver, in antimicrobial activity.

Results: There are various reports that nanoparticles possess antimicrobial properties through direct action on microbial cell membranes, oxidative stress induction, and inhibitory effects on biofilm formation. They demonstrate effectiveness against numerous types of pathogens, MDR bacteria. Due to their ability to target microbial infections, bypass resistance mechanisms, and act as drug delivery systems, nanoparticles have potential in the fight against deadly microbial infections.

Conclusions: Nanoparticles present an effective strategy in controlling microbial infection, especially that which is associated with drug-resistant pathogens. Due to the specific characteristics of some of them related to the diverse ways in which they exert their effect, they are useful in the combat against infection. However, more research is needed to address concerns about potential toxicity and improve its clinical applications.

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